2026 NHL Mock Draft Shock: Gavin McKenna Tops Corey Pronman’s List—But Can He Live Up to the Hype?
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9. Detroit: Carson Carels, LHD, Prince George (WHL)
Carels played big minutes for Prince George this season and for Canada’s U18 team. He’s a well-rounded defenseman. He skates well and competes hard, showing the ability to make a lot of stops. Carels is a strong puck mover who makes a lot of good decisions with the puck and possesses solid puck skills. For a 6-1 defenseman, if he’s dynamic enough will be a minor question, but he just seems to make so many positive plays.
10. Nashville: Daxon Rudolph, RHD, Prince Albert (WHL)
Rudolph was an important player for a strong Prince Albert team as a 16-year-old. The first-overall pick in his WHL Bantam Draft, I wouldn’t call Rudolph the most dynamic 1/1 you’ll ever see. He’s a very smart and steady defender. He makes a lot of good decisions with the puck, while also having the skill and vision to execute difficult plays. He’s a good skater who can make a lot of stops and projects as a solid two-way defender.
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